Physical Therapy

Physical therapy or physiotherapy (sometimes abbreviated to PT) is the health care profession primarily concerned with the remediation of impairments and disabilities and the promotion of mobility, functional ability, quality of life and movement potential through examination, evaluation, diagnosis and physical intervention (therapy using mechanical force and movement). It is carried out by physical therapists (known as physiotherapists in most countries) and physical therapist assistants (known as physical rehabilitation therapists or physiotherapy assistants in some countries). In addition to clinical practice, other activities encompassed in the physical therapy profession include research, education, consultation, and administration. Definitions and licensing requirements in the United States vary among jurisdictions, as each state has enacted its own physical therapy practice act defining the profession within its jurisdiction, but the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) has also drafted a model definition in order to limit this variation, and the APTA is also responsible for accrediting physical therapy education curricula throughout the United States of America. In many settings, physical therapy services may be provided alongside, or in conjunction with, other medical or rehabilitation services, including occupational therapy.

Salaries and Industries Hiring Physical Therapists

According to a report released in May 2013 by the bureau of labor statistics physical therapists earn on average $82k/annually with the top 10% earning over $110k/year. Physicians and other health practitioners, hospitals, nursing care facilities and home health care providers lead the way in employing physical therapists.

Physical therapist assistants earn well too with the average assistant bringing home over $53k/annually. The top 10% of physical therapist assistants bring home over $73k/annually.

Physical Therapist Schools

Assistants to physical therapists can begin working after as little as two years in school. To become a physical therapist you will need to graduate from a certified graduate program achieving a masters degree. Physical therapists can expect to spend anywhere from 6-7 years in school.

Below we have listed some physical therapist schools by visitor ranking, use the search form below to narrow your search by your state,city or both.